Musicians ditch Scouts concert over gay ban

Canadian Pop Star Carly Rae Jepson (pictured) has announced that she is pulling out of an upcoming Boy Scouts of America concert due to the organisation’s stance on homosexuality.

“As an artist who believes in equality for all people, I will not be participating in the Boy Scouts of America Jamboree this summer.” Jepsen said via Twitter.

“I always have and will continue to support the LGBT community on a global level.”

Her announcement followed another headline act, Train, who also refused to appear on the day and would only consider performing if the Scouts’ ban was lifted.

“Train strongly opposes any kind of policy that questions the equality of any American citizen,” the band said in a statement.

“We look forward to participating in the Jamboree this summer, as long as they make the right decision before then.”

Both announcements follow an active campaign by the advocacy group Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLAAD), that gathered more than 60,000 signatures on its petition.

The organisation has been under pressure from the LGBTI community and rights groups to change its longstanding position and ban on gay members.